Andrew: I’ve read some of his stuff and, actually, it can be rather tedious and repetitive, but his online lectures and interviews cover everything in a much more accessible way. I’d start with YouTube, if I were you, and take it from there. Also, check out http://www.kurzweilai.net

Lottie: tell him not to worry if he finds some of it a bit boring. Kurzweil does go on a bit, but there is some fascinating stuff going on and I think John will find it pretty exciting.